Flexible MIL-53(Al)/Biochar composite for enhanced norfloxacin Removal : Synergistic effects and adsorption mechanisms

Phayutcharoenkun, P. and Akindoye, S.B. and Chandran, R. and Phan, A.N. and Duong, L.T. and Arpornwichanop, A. and Prasertcharoensuk, P. (2026) Flexible MIL-53(Al)/Biochar composite for enhanced norfloxacin Removal : Synergistic effects and adsorption mechanisms. Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, 153. pp. 836-845.

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Abstract

The presence of antibiotic contaminants, particularly norfloxacin (NRFX) in aquatic environments poses a significant threat to ecosystems and public health, due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and contribution to antimicrobial resistance. In this study, a novel MIL-53(Al)/biochar composite was synthesized and applied for NRFX removal from wastewater. The synthesized composite exhibited a high surface area (806 m2/g) and mesopore structure, promoting to improved dispersion and adsorption efficiency. Under optimal conditions (20 mg/L NRFX, 40 mg/L adsorbent, 30 °C, 120 min), the composite achieved a maximum adsorption capacity of 357 mg/g, surpassing most reported antibiotic sorbents (< 250 mg/g). The superior performance was attributed to the synergistic integration of MIL-53(Al) flexible “wine-rack” framework with the oxygen-functionalized, mesoporous carbon matrix of bamboo-derived biochar, facilitating multiple adsorption mechanisms, including electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, π–π interactions, and pore-filling effects. These findings highlight the potential of MIL-53(Al)/BC as a cost‑effective, sustainable, and high‑performance adsorbent with strong potential for real-world remediation of antibiotic-contaminated wastewater under diverse environmental conditions.